O Chief of Cities Bethlehem

Music: Praetorius, Michael (1571-1621) · Words: Prudentius, Aurelius Clemens (348-413) · Press play and watch the score light up — solo any part, slow it down, loop the hard bits. Free.

2 parts on separate tracksSlow-down 50–90%, pitch trueA-B loopPublic domain

Opens the practice studio: score follows the sound, every part on its own track.

Lyrics

1. O chief of cities, Bethlehem, Of David's crown the fairest gem, But more to us than David's name, In you, as man, the Savior came.

2. Beyond the sun in splendor bright, Above you stands a wondrous light Proclaiming from the conscious skies That here, in flesh, the Godhead lies.

3. The wise men, seeing Him so fair, Bow low before Him, and with prayer Their treasured eastern gifts unfold Of incense, myrrh, and royal gold.

4. The golden tribute owns Him King, But frankincense to God they bring, And last, prophetic sign, with myrrh, They shadow forth His sepulcher.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this free?
Yes — playback, part solo/mute, tempo control and looping are all free, right in the browser. The score and audio are generated from a public domain edition (Open Hymnal Project).
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Is this arrangement public domain?
Yes. Words, music and this edition are public domain, from the Open Hymnal Project. You may sing, perform and share it freely.